Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre is widely considered one of the first novels rooted in feminist principles. Jane's character is undeniably independent in the way she fights for equality and navigates the male-dominated British society of the 19th century. Nonetheless, her coming-of-age story centers on an oppressive social structure dominated by men and marriage, and Jane rarely makes a decision independent of patriarchal influences. While her actions were undoubtedly seen as more radical in the mid-19th century, it is nonetheless impossible to read “Jane Eyre” as a truly feminist novel in the 21st century. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay This lack of a legitimate feminist agenda is seen most obviously through Jane's relationship with Mr. Rochester. Developing a friendship, then a romance with him, Jane becomes "so happy, so satisfied... with this new added interest in life, that she ceased to long for kinship: her slim crescent destiny seemed to expand; the voids of existence were filled; [his] bodily health has improved; [she] gathered flesh and strength. However, there is a clear power imbalance between the two, which prevents her from gaining the autonomy she desires through this relationship. This is clear from the way they address each other: "master" and "little girl", respectively, and from his direct questioning: "do you agree with me that I have the right to be a little masterful? ". Despite Mr. Rochester's possessive and controlling attitude, Jane accepts a marriage proposal. When his past with Bertha Mason is revealed and their marriage is annulled, Jane, who was previously an "ardent." The pregnant woman becomes a cold and lonely girl again; his life was pale; his prospects were desolate.” Mr. Rochester had added color to her life that she had become dependent on. However, instead of reproaching him for having misled her, she blames herself: “I would even fear crossing his path now: my opinion must be odious to him. Oh, how blind my eyes were! How weak is my conduct! Moreover, when they talk about the conflict, she admits that she “forgave him at the time and on the spot”. Jane does not demand high standards from Mr. Rochester as a partner and tends to justify his immoral actions by blaming herself, which is a clear sign of her submission to the oppressive patriarchal marriage system displayed throughout of the novel. If we can consider Jane's refusal to settle in France and marry Mr. Rochester and India's refusal to marry St. John as acts of radical female empowerment, the consequences of these decisions invalidate this point of view. After rejecting immoral and loveless marriages, Jane's move to Ferndean for Mr. Rochester represents the end of his lifelong quest for freedom and stability. On the surface, it appears that they are equals in a loving and fulfilling relationship based on mutual respect. However, it must be considered that it is only after Mr. Rochester loses his sight and, therefore, his autonomy and ability to control it, that she becomes in some way his equal. While Mr. Rochester recognizes that Jane is making an immense sacrifice in devoting her life to being "his vision... his right hand", she disputes that "to be [his] wife is, for [her], to be as happy [she] I can be on earth.” Instead of providing her with new experiences and opportunities, marriage limits her to the role of caregiver, thus conforming perfectly to feminine stereotypes. All.